KEY POINTS
- Atiku Abubakar has endorsed the Christian Association of Nigeria’s call for urgent reforms to Nigeria’s security architecture.
- He urged both Christian and Muslim leaders to unite in demanding stronger action against insecurity and terrorism.
- Atiku called on President Tinubu to implement concrete security reforms beyond rhetoric to address worsening violence.
The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has expressed strong support for the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) over its call for urgent reforms to address Nigeria’s worsening security situation.
Atiku also called on Muslim leaders and other religious organisations to join in the push for comprehensive security reforms, stressing the need for a united national response to insecurity.
In a post shared on his verified X account on Wednesday, the former Vice President said he had reviewed the communique issued at the 2026 National Church Leaders Summit and fully aligned with its concerns.
He described CAN’s position as a timely intervention, especially its call for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture and improved coordination among security agencies.
According to him, the proposals by the Christian body, including enhanced intelligence gathering, stronger inter-agency collaboration, and greater accountability in the fight against terrorism and violent crime, reflect long-standing concerns he has raised about the country’s security challenges.
Calls for National Reflection and Accountability
Atiku commended Christian leaders across various denominations for speaking with one voice, particularly their decision to declare a three-day national mourning period in response to insecurity-related deaths across the country.
He said the gesture should serve as a moment of reflection for political leaders, especially those in positions of authority.
The former presidential candidate argued that insecurity has affected Nigerians across all religious and ethnic divides, warning that the crisis requires urgent and coordinated action from all stakeholders.
Atiku specifically called on Islamic organisations and Muslim leaders to lend their voices to the growing demand for security reforms.
He said a united stance from both major faith groups would strengthen public pressure on the government to take decisive action against rising violence, banditry, and terrorism.
According to him, insecurity should not be viewed through religious or ethnic lenses but as a national emergency affecting all Nigerians.
The former Vice President also criticised the current administration, alleging that it has failed to effectively address the country’s security challenges.
He said the continued violence across various regions reflects what he described as shortcomings in the government’s security strategy.
Atiku urged President Bola Tinubu to go beyond public statements and implement practical reforms that would deliver measurable improvements in national security.